Dennis Hilton, president and owner of the Cheney Financial Group, has pledged to be a major supporter of the Damariscotta River Association’s soon-to-be announced capital campaign. Hilton owns the Cheney Financial Group (CFG), which is comprised of three long-standing Damariscotta-area businesses, Cheney Insurance, Newcastle Realty and Newcastle Vacation Rentals. Together, the CFG companies share a strong commitment to supporting the surrounding communities and non-profit organizations, and have invested more than $250,000 in direct financial support and volunteer-hours locally during the past two decades.

“We are excited to make this $10,000 financial investment in the DRA’s future, as they prepare to unveil an ambitious plan for improving their facilities, expanding their programs, and furthering their land stewardship and marine conservation efforts,” said Hilton. “The staff and families at each of our companies and the many clients we serve benefit from the natural beauty of our surroundings, and we take an active interest in the preservation work undertaken by the DRA and other nearby land trusts.”

Susan Dale, human resource manager for the Cheney Financial Group, has served on the DRA Board of Trustees for two terms until recently, and continues to be an active volunteer. “As coordinator of our CFG charitable giving and outreach efforts, I am very pleased with the commitment Dennis has made to this important community asset,” she added.

“We are long-term clients of Cheney Insurance and big fans of the Cheney Financial Group,” notes DRA Executive Director Stephan Hufnagel. “Their support over many years has helped us to make trails, events, and programs available to community members of all ages. From music events to after-school nature programs, they have been there for us, and in turn the community. Their special commitment to our next big steps will open up new opportunities for more children and adults alike to enjoy the Damariscotta River—and the beautiful lands around it—right out their back doors and directly from the front doors of their schools. We are truly grateful to Dennis, to the Cheney Financial Group, and to all who have supported our community-focused programs and lands.”